Betty Clover is set to compete in the Sky Bet Lowther Stakes

Eve Johnson Houghton’s Betty Clover is set to compete in the Sky Bet Lowther Stakes following a strong season that included a near-miss in the Princess Margaret Stakes.

The grey filly has impressed throughout the year, starting with a decisive win on debut at Bath in April, followed by a second-place finish in a Salisbury conditions race. At York, she stepped up to the listed level in the Marygate Stakes and excelled at 12-1, winning by half a length in a 15-horse field with Georgia Dobie aboard.

Betty Clover then tackled the Group Two Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot, where she finished eighth, five and a half lengths behind the winner, but performed well among the leading group.

In her most recent outing, the filly placed second in the Group Three Princess Margaret Stakes at Ascot, coming in just half a length behind the winner, Simmering.

With solid performances at both York and Ascot, Betty Clover will target the Lowther Stakes at the Ebor meeting in late August.

Johnson Houghton expressed satisfaction with the filly’s progress, noting that she is in excellent condition and that her performance continues to improve. She mentioned that Betty Clover has not shown any signs of lameness and appears to thrive with each race.

Regarding the possibility of selling Betty Clover, Johnson Houghton acknowledged her attachment to the filly but indicated that a suitable offer could be considered.